#OOTD: The Best Way to Dress for a Casual Fall Day

Editor’s note: You’ve surely seen this hashtag lots of different places, including on Instagram. But how does that carry over to real life? The #OOTD series will take one great item and put together a versatile, stylish outfit around it. Look for past features here.

Now, we might be rolling through November, but with this up-and-down weather, it’s not quite felt truly, really … like fall. Has it? Well, maybe we’ll call this one an #OOTD for a casual … November (or December?) day. Either way, we’ll continue to push forward here on The Style Guide.  Situational dressing, although at first daunting, can  be one of the best parts of getting into menswear — a weekend coffee date? No problem. Heading out on a fall hike? We’ve got you covered there, too. But what about those in-between times? Maybe you’re dashing to the barber or strolling down the street to grab a beer — nothing too fancy, right? And yet, all you loyal Style Guide readers (I think there are a few?) know that even a casual, brisk fall day is a chance to mix and match your favorite style essentials. Some of the pieces below are investment-worthy, but they’re all built to last — and each is versatile in its own right. This is the type of garb to toss on for a perfect fall (or winter) Sunday, and you can even swap in a tough chambray shirt if you need to dress it up a little bit.  So, read on and stick around for more menswear shopping picks for the season.
Huckberry

Reach for comfortable, premium basics and durable boots on a casual fall day.

Reach for comfortable, premium basics and durable boots on a casual fall day.

The Jacket: Apolis Indigo Wool Chore Coat, $278 — Of the investment-worthy pieces mentioned above, the Apolis wool chore coat belongs squarely on that list. It’s perfect for layering, it’s sharp without being too dressy, and it’ll break in beautifully.

The Sweatshirt: Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt, $98 — A certified modern-day #menswear classic, the Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt is a cozy, comfortable and stylish second layer — trust me.

The Base Layer: Mack Weldon Pima Long-Sleeve Crewneck, $38 — The Mack Weldon team knows a thing or two about stylish, comfortable basics, and that’s why this pima crewneck is an ideal, warm base layer.
Beckett Simonon

The Pants: Flint & Tinder 365 Khaki Pant, $98 — The makers of your new favorite henley have done it again with a pair of 5-pocket pants that blend casual comfort and crisp style — every day of the year. As to your belt? Pick up a textured braided leather belt on the cheap from J. Crew Factory.

The Boots: Lanona Shoe Co. Academic Boot, $298 — The Academic Boot is another piece that, much like the Apolis indigo wool chore coat, ain’t cheap. But seeing as it’s a Huckberry  exclusive, made in Maine and built with Horween Natural Chromexcel leather? Ehh, the price is more bearable.

The Socks: Anonymous-ism Tribal Joint Crew Socks, $23 (Available via East Dane) Anonymous-ism is known globally for its subtly stylish, well-made socks — if J. Crew and East Dane carry them, you know they’ve gotta be good.

The Watch: Form-Function-Form Horween Leather Timex Chronograph, $119.98 — This casual outfit is filled with rugged style essentials, so why not reach for an affordably priced, durable Horween leather watch? Ehh?

The Hat: Carhartt WIP Key Ribbed Beanie, $35 (Available via East Dane)  — Sometimes, you don’t need to get too over-the-top with your fall and winter accessories — this navy cap is understated and high-quality.

Keep in mind that when dressing for a casual fall day, plenty of other pieces will work. Whether you layer up a rugged henley with a cotton chore coat or go with a slim chambray shirt and your favorite pair of dark denim, it’s important to keep versatile style and proper fit in mind — but hey, we all know that (wink, nudge). And in this instance, you can get a ton of mileage out of an indigo wool chore coat and classic khaki pants — that goes for casual weekend wear or versatile office style. Oh, and those Horween leather boots will break in beautifully over time while fitting in perfectly with this outfit’s rugged vibes (Editor’s note: If, however, you seek a more affordable pair of fall boots, this site has you covered in the meantime). Are there pieces on this list you would switch up? How do you dress for a casual fall day? Get style inspiration and join the #menswear discussion over on Twitter.
Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Men’s Chambray Shirts

Editor’s note: Connect with The Style Guide on Facebook for even more menswear.

It might come as a shock to you that this here blog hasn’t rounded up the best chambray shirts for men — ever, really. Now, we’ve talked about how to wear a chambray shirt for fall, and we’ve even reviewed an American-made chambray shirt from Todd Shelton — but a complete rundown of essential chambray shirts to buy now? Not so much.  With its textured cotton fabric and roots in American workwear, it’s a piece that — much like a rugged henley — has been turned into a four-season piece with the versatility to rival a classic blue Oxford.  You can thank brands like J. Crew for that, and you can thank Style Guide favorite Todd Snyder, too — his time at J. Crew helped cement, among other things, the popularity of the shirting style. Which brings us to the present day — hopefully in your neck of the woods, it’s truly and properly fall. If that’s the case, there might not be a better time to layer up a new chambray shirt. Hopefully, you’ve knocked a few pieces off your fall style wish list, but if you’re still searching for a few more staple items to fill your closet — *cough, cough* a new chambray shirt — today’s post has you covered. Chime in on the below picks, if you please, in the comments, and follow along on Instagram for more fall styling tips.

#1. Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt $98

Taylor Stitch

It just doesn’t get any better than the Everyday Chambray Shirt from Taylor Stitch.

As much as J. Crew has turned the chambray shirt into an essential casual (or dressy) piece for all guys, Taylor Stitch has done just as much in a short period of time. The Everyday Chambray Shirt is a stone-cold Style Guide favorite for a multitude of reasons. With a slim fit, premium Japanese chambray fabric and double needle construction, it’s a wonder that the fine folks at Huckberry can even keep this thing in stock. Wear it with slim chinos and high-top sneakers on the weekend, then pair it with brown wingtips and a navy blazer during the work week. As with most Taylor Stitch pieces, you won’t be able to stop wearing the Everyday Chambray Shirt — at least, I think so.

#2. J. Crew Slim Indigo Japanese Chambray Shirt — $88

The shirt that (arguably) started it all. Buy it now, wear it a bunch.

The shirt that (arguably) started it all. Buy it now, wear it a bunch.

Ahh yes, here we are. The shirt that spawned copycats and helped men the world over dress a bit better (if not more so). Just as with Taylor Stitch, J. Crew has perfected casual, easygoing basics  that are versatile, well-fitting and reliably able to be dressed up or down in a pinch. Made with premium Japanese chambray, this indigo chambray shirt might just be your new favorite chambray — other than the Everyday Chambray Shirt, that is. If you hang around, you can likely snag it for a steal using a J. Crew sale code. But in the meantime, it’s a nice deal for the price.

Beckett Simonon

#3. Todd Snyder Chambray Patch Pocket Shirt in Light Indigo — $168

A rich indigo color and the sort of details one would expect from a designer that specializes in rugged staples.

A rich indigo color and the sort of details one would expect from a designer that specializes in rugged staples.

It should come as no surprise that the designer who helped put J. Crew back on the map now makes a heck of a chambray shirt in his own right. The Chambray Patch Pocket Shirt is the sort of piece at which Todd Snyder excels — it mixes a dash of heritage style with rugged vibes and easy wearability. It’s the type of chambray shirt that you could reliably pair with everything from dark denim and the designer’s famed Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch to a classic fall blazer as you head to the office. For the price, you’ll certainly want to get a lot of wear out of it.

Frank & Oak

#4. Ben Sherman Chambray Shirt in Navy Blazer — $85 (Available via East Dane)

Simple, stylish and nicely done via Ben Sherman.

Simple, stylish and nicely done via Ben Sherman.

From the brand’s classic Harrington jackets to slim chinos, Ben Sherman specializes in classic pieces with a dash of mod, British edge.  This slim chambray shirt uses a nice medium blue color that would look right at home with slim, American-made chinos and brown chukka boots at the office, while also blending in nicely with, say, a first date ensemble.  It’s fairly priced considering the quality and history of the brand, and it’ll work just as well this coming winter under a slim cardigan as it will come spring time with your favorite pair of shorts.

#5. Gitman Vintage Chambray Oxford Shirt — $124.80 (Available via East Dane)

Gitman Vintage

Inspired by a chambray shirt and featuring classic Oxford detailing.

Are you familiar with Gitman Vintage? Maybe? Maybe not? Either way, this brand does the classics the right way — its premium shirts are infused with a dash of classic prep style and a slightly irreverent modern edge. And as it were, this chambray Oxford shirt gets a lot of things right, from the trim fit to the blue chambray color and the Oxford styling details. It’s a hybrid shirt that you can wear as you would a normal Oxford — say, with a wool tie and a herringbone blazer — or a regular ol’ chambray shirt (perhaps atop your favorite henley this season).

And, well … that’s it for the first-ever Style Guide rundown of the best men’s chambray shirts. It was admittedly pretty tough to narrow it down to just five — heck, in addition to the crisp blue Everyday Chambray Shirt, even Taylor Stitch makes a terrific grey chambray shirt. But the above picks represent quality, versatile style potential and the type of easygoing wearability that’ll work just as well this coming winter as it will when the weather warms up. There aren’t that many shirts you can layer under a slim cardigan in one season, and wear with your favorite swimsuit in the spring, but the chambray shirt is certainly one of’ ’em. Get to shopping for your new favorite chambray shirt and let me know how it goes, will ya?

Stay stylish — and thanks for reading!

-Beau

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Henleys to Buy Right Now

Editor’s note: Start your seasonal menswear shopping here.

So, we’re into November here on The Style Guide. There’s a chill in the air, the holidays are around the corner (crazy!) and maybe, just maybe, you’ve noticed a piece or two missing from your cold-weather wardrobe. Now, we talked tough denim shirts last week, and we’re talking another choice menswear essential today. You might have tough high-top sneakers and slim selvedge denim covered this season– maybe even a stylish fall cardigan — but what else are you going to layer it with? The answer’s pretty simple, and it’s one that comes up here often on this site. It’s rugged, it’s durable and it makes just about any guy look great – the essential long-sleeve henley, folks. While we’ve covered the best short-sleeve henleys and even took a stab at rounding up stylish henleys last fall, it’s high time for an update. The layering potential of a slim henley is such that you can pair it with a cotton peacoat, a V-neck sweater or underneath a chambray shirt without missing a beat. And if you get one that’s made with quality materials and attention to detail — like the picks below — you’ll have an easier and even more enjoyable time wearing it. Want to chime in on the conversation? Head over to The Style Guide Facebook page for a spell, or hit up Instagram for more.

#1. Flint and Tinder Marled Long-Sleeve Henley — $62

One of the best henleys on the market, and sold by the great Huckberry team, to boot.

One of the best henleys on the market, and sold by the great Huckberry team, to boot.

Our top pick here is almost too easy of a choice. Sold by the folks at Huckberry, the Flint and Tinder Marled Long-Sleeve Henley is as good as it gets. With a unique, visually interesting four-button placket, a  trim-yet-mobile fit and nicely marled mid-weight jersey fabric, it’s sure to become your  new fall go-to. Heck, you could pair this stylish henley with a pair of Flint & Tinder selvedge denim and a rich suede bomber jacket for excellent style nearly any day of the week.

#2. Reigning Champ Long Sleeve Henley — $85

Made in Canada with all the reliable style details you could ask for.

Made in Canada with all the reliable style details you could ask for.

Like Flint and Tinder, Reigning Champ knows a thing or two about reliable, well-crafted basics. Its Long Sleeve Henley is no exception, made from soft cotton in a seasonally appropriate olive color. It’s the type of henley to throw on underneath a chambray shirt, or on its own, with brown leather sneakers for a weekend coffee run. The raglan sleeves are a flattering touch that’ll broaden your shoulders, and a scalloped hem is another neat visual touch. It’ll also work nicely in the early days of spring — keep it around for the fall and beyond.

#3. Grayers Byron Double Cloth Henley — $59.98

Easygoing, essential and stylish. The Byron Double Cloth Henley definitely gets a lot right!

Easygoing, essential and stylish. The Byron Double Cloth Henley definitely gets a lot right!

It’s only fitting that Grayers — so named for the flannel trousers worn casually by young British men in the ’50s — makes a heck of a nice henley. It nods to the style’s real-life sportswear roots, yet does so with the modern fit and excellent fabric that’s become a hallmark of the Grayers brand. The Byron Double Cloth Henley is lined with soft cotton jersey and features a heather slub fabric that’s the right weight and feel to team up with a Grayers blazer., for example. The price on the Double Cloth Henley isn’t half-bad for a quality layering essential, either.

#4. Alex Mill Indigo French Terry Mock Henley (Available via East Dane) — $125

Part sweatshirt and part henley -- but there's really no wrong way to wear this Alex Mill piece.

Part sweatshirt and part henley — but there’s really no wrong way to wear this Alex Mill piece.

If you’re unfamiliar with Alex Mil, it’d be a wise bet to get acquainted. Particularly if you like ridiculously well-made basics that add a touch of continental flair, the French Terry Mock Henley is worth checking out. It’s made from, as the name would suggest, lightweight French terry fabric in a deep indigo wash — it’s part sweatshirt, part henley and stylish  no matter how you slice it. Layer it over a classic blue Oxford or a tough chambray shirt for rugged-refined office style.

#5. Todd Snyder Classic Chambray Henley (Available via East Dane) — $125

An excellent mix of the heritage-inspired and the modern from Todd Snyder.

An excellent mix of the heritage-inspired and the modern from Todd Snyder.

In the midst of his excellent work with collaborations like the Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch, it’s easy to forget that Todd Snyder still makes excellent basics in his own right.  The Classic Chambray Henley is virtually a classic Snyder piece, right up there with the Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt. Why’s that? Well, it mixes classic sportswear touches — like a elongated placket and a modern fit — with neat chambray detailing at the collar. It’s a premium piece that’s so well-made, you could even get away with wearing it under a wool blazer in the colder months ahead.

Although plenty of people think of the henley solely as a casual piece, the above selections are well-crafted and feature enough visual detailing that they’d work quite well underneath a fall and winter blazer or a slim cardigan on a casual day at the office. And for the investment you’re making, it’s worth it to get as much wear out of it as possible. Pieces like the Flint and Tinder Marled Long-Sleeve Henley are top of the line, made in American out of premium materials. And a hybrid piece like the Long Sleeve Henley  from Reigning Champ mix in fall-appropriate color and texture. Those types of touches are exactly what you should be looking for in a stylish henley — and hopefully, the above picks are enough to get you started.

Until the next post — thanks for reading!

-Beau

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

Style Pick of the Week: Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt

Casual Sunday brunch gear, anyone? Shirt c/o Forever21 Men. Pocket Sweatshirt by Todd Snyder x Champion. Royale Court Sneakers by GREATS Brand. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage.

Casual Sunday brunch gear, anyone? Shirt c/o Forever21 Men. Pocket Sweatshirt by Todd Snyder x Champion. Royale Court Sneakers by GREATS Brand. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage.

We’re deep into crisp fall weather here in NYC, and if that’s the case for you as well … have we got a treat for you today. Ladies and gentlemen, this week’s Style Pick of the Week makes perfect sense and fits right in with a great season for layering and rugged fall style.  And without further ado, let’s hop right into why the Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt is so essential this season — and so worthy of inclusion as a Style Guide pick (wink, wink). We’ve talked about this item — and the brand — on the blog before, but you best study up.  Todd Snyder is a menswear designer who’s certainly worth knowing — and shopping, and buying — for several reasons. His gear harnesses a distinct Midwestern sensibility and classic heritage style, all the while mixing in a bit of downtown cool. That’s true for his namesake line, which does everything from soft-shouldered suiting to classic pocket T-shirts with unique style details, and it’s true for his collaborative efforts, like the fast-selling Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch. And the Todd Snyder x Champion collaboration gets just as many things right. Snyder draws on real-life sporting silhouettes and old-time touches to craft pieces that every guy should feasibly as in his closet. And of course, this rugged crewneck sweatshirt from Todd Snyder x Champion might just be the only sweatshirt you’ll ever need again.

A rugged essential inspired by classic sportswear and done up for the modern man.

A rugged essential inspired by classic sportswear and done up for the modern man.

It’s made in Canada from soft French terry using high-quality construction, and the fit is slim with room to move — and layer a slim chambray shirt, to boot. And as yours truly has written about, the Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt is the type of sweatshirt that can be worn on a weekend coffee date or worn underneath a waxed chore coat. Of course, you could mix things up and pair it with a classic blue Oxford, dark denim and a navy knit tie to wear on a chilly fall day. Small details like the chest pocket on the Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt add a bit of visual interest, and the heather grey fabric is versatile no matter whether you pair it with slim olive cargo pants, dark selvedge denim or navy chinos. It’s a fairly good deal for under $100, too — especially considering how much you’ll want to wear it when you realize how comfortable it is. If you already own the Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt, let me know how it is in the comments. And if you’ve yet to pick one up? Best hurry over to Huckberry now — before it’s too late.

How would you wear the Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt? Any thoughts on the quality?

Frank & Oak

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

Go Green: An October weekend at Michigan State

Editor’s note: To check out my last travel style post, click here.

From NYC to East Lansing in a matter of hours. Alpine Guide Sweater by Alps & Meters. Chambray shirt by Old Navy. Slim denim by Dickies. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage. Leather chukkas by Beckett Simonon. Slim Mailbag by Satchel & Page. Voyager Waxed Weekender by Owen & Fred.

From NYC to East Lansing in a matter of hours. Alpine Guide Sweater by Alps & Meters. Chambray shirt by Old Navy. Slim denim by Dickies. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage. Leather chukkas by Beckett Simonon. Slim Mailbag by Satchel & Page. Voyager Waxed Weekender by Owen & Fred.

First of all — Happy Halloween, Style Guide readers! I spent this past weekend not in New York, but on the road in my home state of Michigan. There’s no question that your author loves to travel. It’s been a big theme this year, from menswear trips to Las Vegas to a fall weekend in Providence. Of course, when the leaves start to turn and college football season kicks off, there’s hardly a place I’d rather be for a fall weekend than on the campus of my alma mater, Michigan State University. It’s a place that holds many special memories, without a doubt. It’s been a down year for my Michigan State Spartans, but this past weekend also brought forth a rivalry that runs deep in my blood — the Michigan-Michigan State college football showdown. From my days growing up 15 minutes down the road from East Lansing to my time at Michigan State’s student newspaper — and the resulting “friendly” football game versus Michigan’s own paper — it always got me excited about my school, and infinitely proud to be a Spartan. It was with that in mind that I hit the road early on Friday morning — and brought along #menswear that was fit for a chilly, casual Michigan weekend, of course.

friday-grid-edited

Just the right mix of casual pieces for a chilly travel day to Michigan. Alpine Guide Sweater by Alps & Meters. X-Series Slim-Fit Tapered Leg Denim by Dickies. Leather chukka boots by Beckett Simonon. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage. Ranger Gloves by Grifter.

Just as with my fall weekend in Providence, I brought along classic, transitional pieces that could work for long travel days and active time in the Lansing area. Given temperatures in the 50s in both Michigan and NYC on Friday, I grabbed the Alpine Guide Sweater courtesy of the premium outdoor lifestyle and snow gear brand Alps & Meters. With a blend of lambswool and waxed cotton, the Guide Sweater was a neat, easily wearable piece that layered comfortably over my Old Navy chambray shirt for simple travel style. My Beckett Simonon chukka boots proved similarly versatile for catching a flight, then enjoying lunch and some very high-quality brews at East Lansing’s HopCat (along with the travel-ready Dickies X-Series Slim-Fit Tapered Leg Jean). Sometimes, you just need pieces that get you where you need to go while looking great, and that’s where the durable Grifter Ranger Gloves also came in handy — literally — throughout the weekend.  I also packed my ever-dependable Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Chrono for weekend wear– tough, durable pieces make for a stylish outfit whether you’re heading back to campus as an alumni or getting around in style as a student.

Collegiate gear from Tailgate Clothing and a team watch from Jack Mason, blended with the Forever21 Button Denim Jacket and Grounder Hi-Tops from Todd Snyder & P.F. Flyers.

Collegiate gear from Tailgate Clothing and a team watch from Jack Mason, blended with the Forever21 Button Denim Jacket and Grounder Hi-Tops from Todd Snyder & P.F. Flyers. Don’t forget that Owen & Fred bottle opener…

The trip back to East Lansing and a much-anticipated Saturday football game presented a challenge — it’s not been until recently that college team gear could be functional, spirited and stylish, so what’s a guy to do? Given the challenge of navigating a campus tailgate in style, I packed away my trusty Tailgate Clothing team tee and Jack Mason team watch, both fairly priced pieces that are a step up from standard college athletic gear  (unfortunately, both places also stock Michigan Wolverines apparel). You can definitely still break out regular team athletic gear if you’ve got it, but when you can snag a Tailgate Clothing tee for just over $30, I say go for that style upgrade. The Jack Mason watch, too, is durable, low-key and subtly stylish thanks to the black dial, sleek dark green logo and black rubber strap — all great things when you might be more focused on grilling or snagging a beer at your tailgate. The breezy Michigan weather meant I could layer up stylishly with the Button Denim Jacket courtesy of Forever21 Men, which proved to be a nice midweight layer and a sharp complement to my durable, comfortable Todd Snyder + P.F. Flyers Grounder Hi-Top sneakers. The sneakers, with their hard-wearing black rubber sole and lined toe cap, were more than ready for time spent on foot reacquainting myself with the beautiful Michigan State campus and downtown East Lansing.

Regardless of the score — admittedly closer than expected — I was definitely still happy to come back given the chance to re-connect with great friends and explore a campus that really does hold a lot of memories for me. And with every trip back, I remember why I love classic East Lansing spots like the Peanut Barrel and Crunchys — if there’s a college-town combo better than a Long Island and a burger from the Peanut Barrel, or a brew at Crunchys, I’m listening.  So it nearly goes without saying that I was happy to visit some of those spots, if only briefly — and in spite of a Michigan State loss. Another chilly day on Sunday brought with it a final brunch at the new, refined Capital Vine in Lansing — swing through if you’re in need of a Bloody Mary and an excellent omelette.

Casual Sunday brunch gear, anyone? Slim-Fit Chambray Shirt by Forever21 Men. Pocket Sweatshirt by Todd Snyder x Champion. Royale Court Sneakers by GREATS Brand. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage.

Casual Sunday brunch gear, anyone? Pocket-Front Denim Shirt by Forever21 Men. Pocket Sweatshirt by Todd Snyder x Champion. Royale Court Sneakers by GREATS Brand. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage. Leather luggage tag by Owen & Fred.

For comfortable, casual travel style, it’s tough to beat gear from the ever-reliable, ever-stylish Todd Snyder x Champion collaboration. In this instance, the Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt, made from soft French terry in a slim fit, was the perfect layering pick atop my Pocket-Front Denim Shirt courtesy of Forever21 Men. My Slim-Fit Cargo Pants, also from Forever21 Men, added a bit of utilitarian style and plenty of comfort, too. And the whole combo was offset by the durable GREATS Royale Court, definitely another seasonally appropriate pick-up. Crucially, the excellent Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt was the ideal fall sweatshirt, particularly when you look at subtle style details like the raglan sleeve stitching and front chest pocket. Yessir, Todd Snyder certainly knows what he’s doing. Again, if you’ve got a chilly fall weekend ahead and want to dress in style, simple-yet-essential pick-ups like the Pocket Sweatshirt from the great folks at Huckberry  are going to get the job done.
Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

Stylish travel gear aside, I was certainly beyond happy to get back to Michigan in style for a fall weekend. It was a classic East Lansing weekend, from time spent roaming campus to time spent inside the hallowed Spartan Stadium — yes, even with the loss. The fall foliage and classic Michigan weather really made it all the more enjoyable — this menswear writer sure does love fall. And of course, the chance to see friends and family topped it all off — along with that Crunchy’s burger, of course. The next time you’ve got to hit the road for a casual fall weekend, I’d recommend you load up with everything from the Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt to a tough, durable set of Beckett Simonon chukka boots. If you’ve got more questions on what to pack for your next trip to Michigan (or elsewhere), join us at The Style Guide Facebook page or on Twitter.

Until the next travel weekend — stay stylish,

-Beau

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Style Suggestion: What to Wear to the Pumpkin Patch

 Editor’s note: Head over here to see more men’s style suggestions for all sorts of situations.

Now, as I sit here in Brooklyn and write this #menswear style suggestion for fall, there’s nary a pumpkin patch — or a rolling field — in sight. If that’s also the case for you, perhaps we can consider this simply another crisp fall weekend style suggestion. But if you do indeed consider trips to the pumpkin patch (Halloween’s coming!) or corn maze a fall ritual — as I did growing up in the Midwest — we’ve got just the set of picks for you. Granted, we’re looking at pieces that mix the premium with the rugged — these are true style upgrades, and they might be a bit much for the pumpkin patch. In that case, know that they’re still plenty wearable for a plethora of other fall activities. Oh, and if the weather is still balmy in your neck of the woods? Scroll through this warm-weather style suggestion.  Now, back to the matter at hand. Your fall explorations might seem more casual — and thus, just in need of the most comfortable clothing you can wear — but there are several opportunities to (all together now) upgrade your style. From your outerwear to your to your rugged boots, we’ve got a full rundown covered below — and then some. Follow along on Instagram daily to see how I’m attempting to transition to fall, and chime in with your own picks on Facebook.

The Outerwear: JACHS NY Navy Double-Breasted Peacoat — $185

A classic in the perfect weight and cut for fall.

A classic in the perfect weight and cut for fall.

Rather than throwing on a zip-up hoodie or a logo athletic sweatshirt, start with a navy double-breasted cotton peacoat. While it’s not quite as warm as a wool peacoat, it’s better suited to the transitional temperatures of fall — if it’s crisp, you’ve layered up with a sweater underneath that (more on that in a second…), and if it gets hot, you can carry it with you. This particular JACHS NY peacoat is stylish, trim-fitting and well-made, complete with shoulder epaulets for a bit of visual interest. You can’t ask for much more than that, truly.

The Shirt: Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt — $118

Stylish, slim-fitting and essential for fall.

Stylish, slim-fitting and essential for fall.

Other than the sweatshirt you’re about to read about below (patience!), there might not be a better pick for a reliable, classic and stylish shirt than this stellar Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt. It’s a four-season essential, to be sure, but it wears particularly great in the fall thanks to the slightly heightened blue color, textured fabric and modern fit (ideal for layering). Heck, you might want to wear this shirt … every day?

The Sweatshirt: Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt — $98 

A classic sweatshirt, redefined for the modern man.

A classic sweatshirt, redefined for the modern man.

The sweatshirt that needs no introduction, ladies and gentlemen. The Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt basically redefined the traditional crewneck sweatshirt, slimming down the fit, adding raglan sleeves and upgrading it ever so slightly with a chest pocket — oh, and making it using the quality and durability of these particular materials. Yes, that’s why it retails for nearly $100, and that’s why it’s a neat style upgrade.

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.
The Denim: Flint & Tinder All-American Slim Tapered Jeans — $98

Your new favorite pair of fall denim, complete with a great price tag to match.

Your new favorite pair of fall denim, complete with a great price tag to match.

The All-American Slim Tapered Jean from Flint & Tinder keeps popping up on this site — check this fall weather style suggestion — and for a very good reason. It’s nay impossible to find a well-made pair of tough selvedge denim for under $100, and these jeans just might be the best of the bunch. They’re slim, they’re stylish and they’re a significant upgrade from casual sweatpants.

The Boots: Johnston & Murphy Karnes Alpine Boot — $198

Sleek, rugged and refined -- very Bond-esque, indeed.

Sleek, rugged and refined — very Bond-esque, indeed.

The heritage footwear makers at Johnston & Murphy don’t skimp on the quality or durability of their boots — particularly not a pair like the rugged, refined and stellar-looking Karnes Alpine Boot. The blend of beautiful mahogany calfskin and dark brown nubuck at the padded ankle collar is an eye-catching, yet durable combination. Make no mistake, this is a very sleek pair of hikers that actually wouldn’t look out of place at the office. Granted, they’re the sort of luxury-type boot Bond might have worn in Scotland — so if you don’t want to get them too muddy, best to go with a dependable pair of broken-in boots.

The Socks: Mr. Gray Slub Nep Colorblock Socks — $25

A bit of colorblocking and a lot of comfort, quality and style.

A bit of colorblocking and a lot of comfort, quality and style.

Every now and then, you just feel like upgrading certain essential pieces in your wardrobe — particularly your sock drawer. The Nep Colorblock Sock from Mr. Gray takes care of that upgrade in comfort and style — and you can wear ’em plenty of different places besides your next outdoor fall adventure. Don’t sleep on thick, durable American Trench Fair Isle socks, either.

The Watch: Lum-Tec Huckberry Combat B33 GMT — $498.98

Durable, rugged, refined and ready for action.

Durable, rugged, refined and ready for action.

Now, if your monthly budget or ability to pay your rent or mortgage might be compromised by buying this watch *raises hand*, keep your credit card in your wallet. If it’s a goal that’s within reach, or you simply enjoy admiring (and buying) beautiful watches, the Huckberry Combat B33 GMT might just be yours to keep. Make no mistake, this timepiece really is something else. It’s a custom-designed timepiece featuring a durable 43mm stainless steel case and a Swiss GMT quartz movement — in short, all the functionality and durability you need for a fall weekend and lugging around some pumpkins.

The Belt: Maximum Henry Slim Standard Belt — $100 (Available via East Dane)

Made by just one man, Maximum Henry's belts use excellent materials and craftsmanship.

Made by just one man, Maximum Henry’s belts use excellent materials and craftsmanship.

The hardworking team (of one!) behind Maximum Henry focuses on making simple, quality belts and leather goods the right way — in very small batches in America. That’s the way to go, and it’s why another Maximum Henry belt popped up in this recent #OOTD. It’s a style upgrade that you might not think about making until you realize this belt will simply last and last — right?

Again, if you’d rather not break out a full kit of menswear to head out this fall, there’s nothing wrong with that – and it’ll probably save you a few bucks in the long run. But if you do decide to go for it when it comes to rugged-refined fall style, the above suggestion contains plenty of pieces that’ll look just as great strolling around town thereafter — or strolling through the park, or grabbing Sunday brunch. Not bad, right? A beautiful, durable watch and an upgraded crewneck sweatshirt are the type of pieces that are enjoyable to wear — in addition to being much better-looking than average pieces. And rugged-yet-refined hikers are slightly unexpected — they’re a weekend staple, but could work in a pinch at the office, too. You can’t beat versatility like that for under $200. And the rest of the way, it certainly pays to support made-in-America artisans. If you have questions, suggestions or additions, let me know on Twitter — will ya??

Happy pumpkin-picking!

-Beau

Online Shopping Picks: East Dane Event of the Season

Editor’s note: Click through for a full look at other seasonal menswear shopping picks. This post will be updated throughout the day with more picks from the East Dane Fall Sale. 

Here we are again on another lovely day at The Style Guide. Ready to go? More importantly, ready to shop? That’s why we’re here today. Although there’s a whole plethora of digitally shop-able menswear out there, it’s tricky sometimes to get it all in one place. Luckily, that’s where East Dane and the East Dane Event of the Season come into play. Yes indeed, using the code MAINEVENT16 can get you 25 percent off your entire order up to $500, and 30 percent off orders over $500, now through 2am EST (midnight PST) on Sunday, the 16th.  So, those are the nuts and bolts. But what about the clothes? The men’s fashion arm of Amazon takes a premium, nuanced and slick approach to menswear — you get everything from standout Owen & Fred accessories to an array of gear from Todd Snyder to a heck of a selection of durable fall boots, and you get it conveniently under one easily searchable digital roof. Now granted, the site does have some pieces that sway a little more high-fashion (not to mention a tad expensive), but rest assured — whatever menswear itch you might need to scratch, East Dane takes care of it. That made it a pretty difficult endeavor to narrow down their extensive selection to just a relative few picks. But that’s what we did today at The Style Guide — check out a plethora of gear guaranteed to impress for the fall and winter seasons, and beyond. Now, there’s a heck of a lot on the site, so we’re keeping it to the major categories. Shop the East Dane sale while you can, and stick around on Facebook or Twitter for more men’s style tips and advice — yeah?

Outerwear: Z Zegna Light Shell 4-Pocket Field Jacket (Available via East Dane) — $695

A lightweight, city-ready field jacket perfect for layering.

A lightweight, city-ready field jacket perfect for layering.

The Z Zegna Field Jacket is certainly pricey at its normal rate. But given that sale discount, you can snag it now for a much more agreeable price, particularly given the fact that it’s ideal for stylish seasonal transitions. It’s the kind of rare, easily wearable piece from a brand that veers into high-fashion territory. But this field jacket is a simple silhouette with functionality and prime layering potential — especially with fall essentials like a slim henley or a perfect fall cardigan.

Shirting: Z Zegna Slim Poplin Shirt — $245 (Available via East Dane)

Versatile, crisp and essential -- get this pricey poplin shirt for a better deal via this East Dane sale.

Versatile, crisp and essential — get this pricey poplin shirt for a better deal via this East Dane sale.

Is it worth it to spend more than $200 for a white poplin shirt? Ehh, depending on your financial situation, that’s … debatable. But when said white poplin shirt goes on sale? That’s much more agreeable. There’s nothing overly fancy about this shirt, but then again — simple style is sometimes the best. A crisp white (or navy, or black) poplin shirt can pair up with a slim crewneck sweater and leather sneakers on the weekend, it can team with a fall blazer on chilly work days, and it can work when worn untucked with garment-dyed chinos (like in this look). That’s a lot of versatility for one shirt, which justifies the price.

Footwear: Lacoste L. 12.12 Leather Sneakers — $170 (Available via East Dane)

Crisp, easily wearable sneakers at a decent price.

Crisp, easily wearable sneakers at a decent price.

Sizing for these sneakers is already a bit limited, so it’s advisable that you hop on them quickly. A crisp pair of leather sneakers can work wonders in terms of style and versatility even during the colder fall months — wear this navy pair with grey chinos and a tan herringbone wool blazer, and pair them up with a slim cardigan and dark blue denim on the weekends. The price is pretty agreeable for a premium sneaker offering, and it gets you closer to that $500 threshold for 30 percent off, as well. And if you find yourself gravitating more towards boots? Start with our picks for stylish chukka boots.

Accessories: Michael Kors Paxton Watch — $195 (Available via East Dane)

Reasonably priced, surprisingly durable and fit for fall style.

Reasonably priced, surprisingly durable and fit for fall style.

Featuring a black case-and-dial combo and a striking cognac leather strap, this watch is the sort of affordably priced addition to your collection that you didn’t know you needed. Granted, it’s not as affordable as a classic Timex (or even the Timex x Red Wing Waterbury collection), but with 100 meters of water resistance, a slightly unexpected black-and-cognac combination and an easily wearable, classic dial design, it could be worth adding it to your cart this time around.

Bottoms: Todd Snyder + Champion Sweatpants — $118 (Available via East Dane)

Premium sweatpants -- there certainly is such a thing thanks to Todd Snyder & Champion.

Premium sweatpants — there certainly is such a thing thanks to Todd Snyder & Champion.

There’s certainly a ton of Todd Snyder + Champion gear available at nice prices, but if you’ve yet to pick up any of the brand’s knitwear, you’re missing out. Is $100-plus a lot for sweatpants? It certainly is, but if you want to upgrade your casual wear, a pair of these sweatpants is the way to go. Featuring an indigo dye and made out of French terry, they’re both more comfortable and better-looking than whatever sweatpants might be in your drawer right now — ya dig? And again, they’ll help you get over that $500 mark to tip off more discounts. Not a bad thing, ehh?

So, there we go — sorting through a big sale such as the East Dan Event of the Season can be a big endeavor. But as the (hopefully) condensed post above goes to show, it all starts with narrowing down your focus and checking out key categories — and you’d be surprised what you’ll find when you dig a little deeper in bigger sale events. Are you shopping the East Dane Event of the Season? Let me know what you’re picking up in the comments below, or over on The Style Guide Facebook page.

Thanks, as always, for reading — see you for our weekly menswear recap on Friday!

-Beau

Standby, folks — more picks to come!

#OOTD: How to Dress for a Weekend Coffee Date

Editor’s note: You’ve surely seen this hashtag lots of different places, including on Instagram. But how does that carry over to real life? The #OOTD will take one great item and put together a versatile, stylish outfit around it. Look for past features here.

The more you get into menswear and the art of dressing well, the more you realize how many situations it can help you through — that’s something I’m still learning everyday. That is to say, everything from your morning coffee run to what to wear to the gym are chances to extend and improve your personal sense of style (says the guy who wears old college tees to work out sometimes). The smallest situations and style details really do help set you apart, and that’s the approach we’re taking in today’s #OOTD. It’s a pretty specific situation — perhaps date isn’t the right word, but know that even when dashing out to grab coffee, it’s still a chance to look put-together. That goes for whether you’re meeting a friend, a date, your dog, your cat … you get the picture. And, it gives you an excuse to work more excellent #menswear into your rotation — that’s what we do at The Style Guide, folks. Plus, assuming it’s well and truly fall weather, it’s a nice chance to break out a few extra casual layers (or, you could just stick with that Taylor Stitch chambray shirt in the heat) and a great watch. There’s plenty more in store — read on below, and get more daily style inspiration via Instagram.

ootd-weekend-coffeeThe Overshirt: Bridge and Burn Flint Overshirt, $182 — It’s a shirt! It’s a jacket! It’s a shirt-jacket, and with a neat cotton flannel lining and a rich indigo dye, it’s just the right weight to throw during a crisp Saturday or Sunday morning.

The Sweatshirt: Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt (Available via East Dane), $98 — This sweatshirt is a stone-cold classic — add it into the essential menswear lexicon for the well-dressed guy. It’s clean, classic and again, a perfect layering weight for fall. Snag it here.

The Shirt: Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt, $118 — Whether you go with white or classic blue, the Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt is another absolute essential.

The Chinos: Levi’s Made & Crafted Slim Fit Chinos (Available via East Dane), $178 — These Levi’s Made & Crafted chinos are indeed pricey, but well-made, easily wearable for casual situations and a nice weekend upgrade from denim (although that works here, too).

The Sneakers: SeaVees Huckberry Chukka, $98 — Since you’re wearing a classic chambray shirt and chinos, it’s OK to go a bit more casual with these durable sneakers — the perfect weight, color and cut for fall.

The Socks: Anonymous-ism 5-Color Crew Mix Socks (Available via East Dane), $25 Anonymous-ism socks are some of the best money can buy — your feet will thank you for this style splurge.

The Watch: KOMONO Walther Cognac, $179.95  — The Walther is the latest release from a new line being done by KOMONO — the brand’s Crafted Collection features a higher price point and premium materials, plus excellent design. Read a full KOMONO product review here.

The Belt: Anderson’s Stretch Woven Grey Belt, $116.98 — As with other Anderson’s belts, this one is going to cost you — but you get a belt that’s durable, comfortable and on-point stylistically (the texture fits right in with the colder climes of fall).

There are certain style moves that just work when it comes down to it — grabbing a stylish chambray shirt will serve you well, as will layering up with a Todd Snyder x Champion crewneck sweater. The slim-fit chinos and SeaVees sneakers blend sporty and tailored style, and premium finishing touches like those Anonymous-ism socks truly make a world of difference — and a heck of an impression, while we’re at it. The situation is surely different than dressing for a first date, but it’s no less important to look your best — even if you’re just relaxing over coffee with your dog, or your cat, or a book. Got questions, suggestions, additions or deletions? Drop me a line on Twitter.

Stay stylish,

-Beau

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Men’s Cardigans for Cold Weather

Editor’s note: Click through for a full set of menswear shopping picks.

In recent weeks, things have really picked up in terms of fall style preparations in my neck of the woods — if you’re into menswear, that probably means it’s been much the same for you. A late September weekend in New York City really brought with it the first slight hints of fall, and slight seasonal changes should remind us of all of gear we need for the chillier months ahead. In the case of today’s latest Online Shopping Picks post, that means we’re talking about a valuable sweater style to keep on-hand — and wear plenty — during fall and winter. What’s that style, you ask? It’s the ever-versatile modern man’s sweater — the cardigan. Whether cut in soft cotton-cashmere or premium merino, or with a more substantial shawl collar, a stylish cardigan is a nice hybrid style that fits in seamlessly with more tailored or more casual looks. Want to go more dressed up? Throw on a slim cotton-cashmere cardigan in place of your blazer with a wool tie and crisp dress shirt. Want to stay casual? Take that same cardigan and pair it with a long-sleeve henley and a durable, essential pair of sturdy selvedge denim for your off-duty hours. The picks below come in at price points low and high, and feature style that’s minimal and tailored — as well as casual and rugged. If you haven’t bought a cardigan for fall and winter, consider this the perfect starting point.

#1. JackThreads Fair Isle Cardigan — $79

A neutral base livened up with a visually interesting Fair Isle pattern.

A neutral base livened up with a visually interesting Fair Isle pattern.

Quick, what brand makes all manner of essential goods for every season? At nice, low prices? It’s JackThreads — and this cardigan is a big-time winner in that regard. The brand keeps taking steps forward as far as its products go — pieces like this Fair Isle cardigan nod toward trends without being too over-the-top. The fabric quality and fit should be reliable and modern, and the tan base should help it play nicely off navy chinos or grey flannel trousers — yes, it’s almost flannel season!

#2. J. Crew Cotton-Cashmere Cardigan Sweater — $74.50

Nothing too fancy about this sweater -- but with fabric this nice, it doesn't need to overdo it.

Nothing too fancy about this sweater — but with fabric this nice, it doesn’t need to overdo it.

Like JackThreads, J. Crew consistently comes up with fresh takes on wardrobe staples no matter the season. Although some of those creations can lean quite expensive, this cotton-cashmere cardigan is the definition of an everyday sweater at a low price. If you keep a weather eye out for sales and deals, you could snag it even cheaper. As it stands now though, a slim burgundy cardigan from a reputable brand is something every guy can put to good use. Team up this cardigan with a blue Oxford, slim tan chinos and high-top sneakers for a bit of sporty, retro style.

#3. Grayers Shore Club Cotton Cardigan in Navy Heather — $93.75

A cotton cardigan can still work in the fall -- just pair with a slim henley and cold-weather accessories.

A cotton cardigan can still work in the fall — just pair with a slim henley and cold-weather accessories.

Have you had your fill yet of navy sweaters? Hope not. Grayers’ fabric quality is top-notch (which explains the Grayers x SeaVees sneaker collab), and that’s the case with this easygoing navy heather cardigan. With details like a chest pocket and dual hip pockets, plus that heathered fabric, it’s going to wear easily over a slub pocket T-shirt with olive chinos and a pair of durable moc toe boots — like the ones seen in this #OOTD. It’s the perfect cardigan for weekend coffee runs — and you’ll be the sharpest guy in the place.

#4. Todd Snyder Shawl Cardigan — $157.50 (Available via East Dane)

If you're not a Todd Snyder fan, get on board -- this cardigan is but one example of his excellent work.

If you’re not a Todd Snyder fan, get on board — this cardigan is but one example of his excellent work.

It’s tough not to be a huge fan of what Mr. Snyder has done for casual, rugged menswear — right? The designer’s collaborations — from the Timex x Todd Snyder partnership to his work on P.F. Flyers sneakers — merge menswear’s past with modern fits, a dash of Americana and all-around terrific style. So, it should come as no surprise that his knitwear knocks it out of the park. A midweight jersey fabric is complemented by a faded indigo wash — that combo means it’ll stand out stylishly even up against dark blue denim. And while you could style it with an essential chambray shirt and tan chinos, it’s going to be at its best with a vintage team T-shirt during your next football game.

#5. Rag & Bone Standard Issue Avery Shawl Cardigan — $275 (Available via East Dane)

A strong silhouette, neutral color and luxury fabric make this cardigan worth the investment.

A strong silhouette, neutral color and luxury fabric make this cardigan worth the investment.

Did you think we’d make it out of this post without at least one eye-popping splurge? Not a chance. Some of us aren’t necessarily into brands that skew more heavily toward minimal high fashion — Rag & Bone is one such brand, yet they always temper that approach with military styling, classic colors and beautiful fabrics. This navy knit shawl cardigan has a lot going on visually — the shawl collar, front hip patch pockets and textured fabric — but it’s done so in a pleasing way (with a strong silhouette to boot). When teamed with a red plaid shirt, you’re getting a look that’s heritage-inspired and fall-appropriate without going too far overboard.

With any of the above cardigans, you’re checking some key fall #menswear criteria — 1) Warmth and solid layering potential. 2) Visual interest — in the form of a shawl collar or a slim dress cardigan. 3) Plenty of styling versatility — crucial when you want to switch things up from a stylish fall or winter blazer. And while some of the above price points stray upward a bit, it’s worth it to make an investment now — especially when you can wear a nice cardigan all through winter (even the Grayers cotton cardigan can be layered under a winter topcoat when snow hits). If you suspect you might get funny looks or comparisons to everyone’s favorite neighbor, rest assured that the cardigan is a modern style move — take the plunge, y’all! If you have suggestions for other stylish men’s cardigans, check out The Style Guide on Facebook.

#OOTD: The Best Way to Wear A Henley This Fall

Editor’s note: You’ve surely seen this hashtag lots of different places, including on Instagram. But how does that carry over to real life? The #OOTD will take one great item and put together a versatile, stylish outfit around it. Look for past features here.

So it’s not exactly the middle of summer anymore, is it? That’s a strange sensation if you’ve been used to dressing for the heat or packing up stylish beach gear. But if  you’re anything like this #menswear writer, you relish the chance to dress for seasonal transitions and break out some of your favorite seasonal style staples. We’re talking pieces that are rugged and refined, ready for casual wear or able to be worn with a bit more tailored style in mind. And in the case of this week’s #OOTD, we’re looking at an outstanding piece for a seasonal transition — the ever-reliable slim long-sleeve henley.  With its athletic-minded origins and rugged good looks, a great henley certainly works in the summer as well as the in-between period between summer and fall. But particularly when it’s made with marled fabric and plenty of quality and comfort, it’s the ideal early (and middle, and late) fall style piece — think of the below #OOTD as a weekend workhorse look. To get your mind right when it comes to stylish henleys, check out last year’s picks for the best men’s henleys for fall — and know that we’ll have a similar feature coming on this site in the weeks ahead. Oh, and how exactly should you style this durable staple? We won’t drop any hints up here — scroll below to check out the #OOTD, join in on the men’s style conversation at The Sty le Guide’s Facebook page, and check out this guy’s Instagram for daily style tips.

Best men's henleys for fall

Just one way — but perhaps, the best way — to wear a henley this fall.

The Henley: Flint & Tinder Marled Long-Sleeve Henley, $62  — So, the henley shown here is a bit more expensive than you might be used to paying for a basic layering piece. But the quality, fit and styling potential is top-notch, and given the fact that it’s part of a slew of new additions to the Flint & Tinder product line, you should definitely pick up this slim henley.

The Coat: Old Navy Canvas Coat, $69.94 — It might initially be too hot to wear a canvas coat atop that henley, but know that when it gets slightly chilly and you need a crisp top layer, this rugged canvas coat is the perfect finishing touch.

The Chinos: JACHS NY Grey Bowie Fit Stretch Cotton Chino, $89 — Why go with chinos here as opposed to slim, dark denim? They lend the look a bit of high-low style appeal, and the fabric and slim fit are nice positives.

The Boots: CAT Footwear Russell Boot, $150 — Boots that blend different fabrics and textures (like wool and leather) with a sturdy ankle boot, moc toe combination are the perfect way to nod toward the chillier temperatures of fall — not to mention the rugged-refined vibe of this outfit.

The Socks: Flint & Tinder Inventor Socks, $17.98 (Three-pack) — If we’re going with a Flint & Tinder henley, might as well go with crisp, stylish and comfortable Flint & Tinder socks, ehh?

The Watch: Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Chrono, $158 — The Timex x Red Wing Heritage collaboration is a certified Style Guide favorite, and it’s the perfect mixture of toughness and style to offset the other fall-appropriate pieces in this #OOTD.

The Belt: Anderson’s Stretch Woven Leather Belt, $195 — If you want a belt that’s going to work as hard as you do, last forever (truly) and add some subtle texture to this overall look, the Anderson Stretch Woven Leather Belt is the way to go.

The Everyday Carry: United By Blue Lakeland Laptop Bag, $119.98 — Looking for a durable, dependable bag to haul around your laptop? This United By Blue laptop bag merges function and fashion, and it does so while promoting a good cause (the brand removes one pound of trash from oceans & waterways for every item sold).

Are you ready for some fall weather yet? Hopefully so. Dressing for the transitional period between the heat of summer and the chill of winter can seem taxing if you’ve grown used to wearing that short-sleeve chambray shirt for months on end, yet reaching for the right pieces can make it an enjoyable task. A marled henley is an essential for the colder months, and when mixed with dependable boots and refined chinos, it can work in even more style situations. On top of that, sharp socks that add a pop of color play nicely off dressy touches like that textured leather belt and rugged leather watch. And if it gets truly cold in the weeks ahead, you can always add a crisp shawl cardigan to this same ensemble. Have questions or more suggestions for the #OOTD series? Shoot me a note on Twitter.

Make room in your closet for a great henley — and stay stylish in the meantime!

-Beau